Reno: Original Brewery Tour

If you’re considering a fun, relaxed way to explore Reno beyond casinos and mountain views, the Reno: Original Brewery Tour offers a fantastic glimpse into the city’s burgeoning craft beer scene. This 3.5-hour experience promises to take you behind the scenes at three local breweries, with ample tastings—up to 16 different beers—and a well-chosen snack to complement your drinks. Whether you’re a beer connoisseur or just curious about the local brewing culture, this tour provides a nice balance of education, tasting, and authentic Reno flavor.

Two features stand out: first, the VIP access to Reno breweries, which means fewer crowds and more personal attention from knowledgeable guides. Second, the comprehensive sampling—no other tour offers as many beer options in such a short time—making this an excellent value for beer lovers eager to sample the city’s best. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour is not suitable for those under 21 or for drivers, as alcohol consumption is part of the experience. This makes it perfect for groups of friends or couples looking for a lively, educational outing that’s also quite relaxed.

If you enjoy discovering local flavors with a bit of expert guidance, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your Reno trip. It’s especially fitting if you want to combine a laid-back social experience with some insights into how Reno’s breweries craft their beers.

Key Points

• Wide variety of beers: Sample up to 16 different craft beers across three Reno breweries.
• Behind-the-scenes access: Get VIP-style tours that show you the brewing process firsthand.
• Educational and fun: Learn about the history of beer and modern brewing techniques from knowledgeable guides.
• Tasty pairings: Enjoy a carefully chosen snack that complements the beer tastings.
• Comfortable transportation: Relax during the drive between breweries, avoiding the hassle of navigating on your own.
• Ideal for enthusiasts: Perfect for those interested in local craft beer or seeking a social, guided experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins with a meeting in front of your hotel, where you’ll find the City Brew Tours Reno-Tahoe van ready to whisk you around Reno’s best breweries. The fact that transportation is included is a real perk; it means you won’t have to worry about figuring out how to get from one spot to another or worrying about designated drivers after several tastings. The group size tends to be intimate enough for personal interaction but lively enough to keep the energy up.

The Brewery Visits

You’ll visit three local breweries, each with its own unique character and brewing style. The guides provide behind-the-scenes access, often showing you the fermentation tanks, brewing equipment, and explaining the nuances of each process. This isn’t just a tasting tour; it’s an opportunity to see and learn how Reno’s craft beers come to life.

While the specific breweries aren’t named in the overview, the focus on VIP access means you’re likely to get a more detailed look than typical pub crawls. You might find that each brewery has its signature styles—whether hoppy IPAs, rich stouts, or innovative seasonal brews—and the guides will help you appreciate what makes each one special.

Tasting Experience

Sampling up to 16 beers is quite generous. It gives you a broad exposure to the local craft scene, and the variety ensures there’s something for all. Each beer is served with the aim of showcasing its unique qualities, and the guides likely offer insights into flavor profiles, brewing techniques, and what pairs well with each brew.

The snack that accompanies the tastings is carefully selected to pair with the beers. This enhances the tasting experience, balancing the flavors and giving you something satisfying to enjoy while sipping your beers. Feedback from participants highlights the snack as a thoughtful touch that elevates the overall experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

Learning and Entertainment

One of the best parts of this tour is the educational component. Guides teach you about the ancient history of beer and modern brewing techniques, making the experience both fun and informative. Whether you’re a budding homebrewer or just beer-curious, this knowledge enriches your appreciation and may even inspire you to try brewing yourself.

Price and Value

At $94 per person, the tour offers good value considering the amount of beer you’ll taste and the behind-the-scenes access. It’s worth noting that this isn’t just a drinking session; it’s a curated, guided experience designed to maximize your understanding and enjoyment of craft beer. Compared to other local experiences, this tour provides a comprehensive introduction to Reno’s breweries that’s hard to match.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits adults of legal drinking age who enjoy craft beer, are interested in local culture, or simply want a fun way to spend an afternoon in Reno. It’s also great for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy social learning experiences. Given that meals are not included, it’s best suited for those who plan to eat beforehand or after the tour.

In-Depth Breakdown of the Itinerary

While the exact order of breweries isn’t specified, the structure of the tour ensures you experience a variety of styles and atmospheres. The behind-the-scenes tour at each brewery is likely to be one of the highlights, allowing you to see the equipment and ask questions directly to the brewers.

First stop: Expect a warm introduction to the local craft beer scene, possibly with a focus on one or two flagship beers. Guides will highlight the brewery’s history and signature styles.

Second stop: Here, you might find more experimental or seasonal brews, giving you insight into how Reno breweries innovate. The guides will probably discuss how modern techniques influence the flavors.

Third stop: The final brewery could be a larger, more established operation or a smaller boutique brewery, rounding out your experience with a different perspective.

The Guided Education

Part of the charm is the expert guidance. Guides will explain the history of beer, from ancient civilizations to today’s craft movement. Expect lessons on tasting techniques, the differences between styles, and how local ingredients influence flavor.

The Tasting and Snacking

The sampling process is paced to allow you to savor each beer. The snack, paired thoughtfully, is a practical touch that helps cleanse the palate and enhances flavors. It’s clear the tour prioritizes quality over quantity, ensuring you’re not just drinking but learning and appreciating.

Transportation and Group Dynamics

The included comfortable transportation keeps the experience smooth. No need to worry about driving or navigating, which means you can relax and focus on tasting and chatting. The group size is likely manageable, making it easy to interact with guides and fellow participants.

Final Thoughts on the Tour’s Value

At just under $100, this tour provides a well-rounded, immersive look into Reno’s craft beer scene. It’s especially valuable for those who want more than just a tasting—the behind-the-scenes access and education turn this outing into a memorable, enriching experience. The generous tastings also mean you’ll leave feeling well-acquainted with Reno’s local brews.

In a city famous for its entertainment and outdoor activities, this experience offers a more relaxed, flavorful alternative. It’s perfect for adults who appreciate good beer, are curious about how it’s made, or simply want to enjoy a lively afternoon with friends.

Who should consider this tour?

If you’re a craft beer lover, a curious traveler, or someone looking for a unique activity that combines education with fun, this tour is a strong choice. It’s especially good for those who appreciate guided experiences, as the knowledgeable guides make all the difference. On the flip side, if you’re not into beer or prefer more active or outdoor pursuits, this might not be your best fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
No, this tour is designed around beer tastings and is not suitable for those under 21 or who do not drink alcohol.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, usually in the afternoon, making it a perfect activity after a morning of sightseeing.

What’s included in the price?
You get behind-the-scenes tours of three breweries, up to 16 beer samples, a paired snack, and comfortable transportation.

Are gratuities included?
No, gratuities are not included, but they are customary if you feel the guides did a good job.

Where do I meet the tour?
Meet in front of your hotel, where the City Brew Tours Reno-Tahoe van will be waiting.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring your ID, a passport or driver’s license, and comfortable shoes — you’ll be walking around breweries and tasting a lot of beer.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers flexibility in case your plans change.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so plan to meet at the designated spot.

Final Word

The Reno: Original Brewery Tour offers a lively, educational, and mouthwatering way to experience Reno’s craft beer scene. With VIP access, a sizable sampling of local brews, and engaging guides, it’s a great choice for adults wanting to enjoy a relaxed, authentic taste of the city. It’s ideal for those who value stories behind the brews as much as the drinks themselves and are eager to learn. If you’re open to a fun, flavorful afternoon with friendly company, this tour is likely to become one of your favorite Reno memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: